Essendon coach Brad Scott alluded to Darcy Parish returning through the VFL this week, pending he gets through the week's training sessions.
Parish hasn't been sighted in 2025 due to persistent soft-tissue injuries, with a calf strain being the latest ailment he suffered.
The 2021 All-Australian was in line to feature last weekend, but the Bombers' reserves squad had a bye, which ultimately drew criticism from Scott.
"He's a chance," Scott said.
"Our VFL team had a bye, so it's a hard one to bring him in on a couple of training sessions alone.
"So I think he's more likely to play in the VFL this week than the AFL. Provided things go well today at training, he'll play at some level, and look to have him available the week after."
Essendon is preparing for one of the marquee contests on their calendar, taking on Richmond in the annual Dreamtime at the 'G clash.
For the first time in its existence since 2005, the contest will be played in a standalone fixture on Friday night, giving clear air to the highly anticipated match.
Jade Gresham is hopeful to put his hand up for selection as he recovers from a minor adductor strain he suffered in Round 8.
Despite the week off in the VFL, Scott could look at Jayden Laverde to help bolster the defensive line, while Matt Guelfi, Elijah Tsatas and Alwyn Davey Jr could all come into the mix.
"We've got some challenges in the availability space," Scott added.
"We still have options. Hopefully, a couple of guys will prove their fitness. Guys like Jade Gresham, who's missed a couple, we'll see how he trains."
Essendon copped a reality check last week against the Western Bulldogs, after they were smashed to the tune of 91 points.
Scott acknowledged the "big gap" between the Bombers and the contending clubs, but commended the Bulldogs' impressive performance.
